Navigating Menopause: Understanding the Latest Danish Clinical Guidelines
- Berit Lavik
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
A Perspective from Dr. Berit Lavik, CEO of Apex Health & Aesthetics
Menopause is a pivotal biological transition, and staying informed about evolving clinical guidance helps women make empowered decisions about their bodies.
Recently, the Danish Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Dansk Selskab for Obstetrik og Gynækologi) published updated guidelines on hormone therapy (HT), led by Dr. Anette Tønnes Pedersen of Rigshospitalet. These guidelines, covered in Sundhedspolitisk Tidsskrift , offer nuanced insights that reflect current evidence while emphasizing individualized care.
The latest guidance prioritizes nuanced, personalized decision-making. Here are three important takeaways:
1. Earlier Intervention in Specific Cases
The guidelines acknowledge that HT may be appropriate for some women before menstruation has completely stopped, particularly when symptoms significantly disrupt daily life. This represents a shift from previous "wait until periods end" approaches, recognizing that perimenopausal symptoms can be debilitating.
Important caveat:Â The guidelines emphasize that HT should not be used primarily for disease prevention (cardiovascular or bone health).
Lifestyle factors such as smoking cessation, exercise, and nutrition remain the foundation for long-term health.
2. Testosterone for reduced sex drive: Off-label with precautionsÂ
For women experiencing a significant loss of libido, the guidelines acknowledge that testosterone supplementation may be attempted in selected cases, provided other causes have been ruled out. However, they emphasize critical limitations:
Testosterone is not approved for women in Denmark and is used off-label.
Treatment requires close monitoring of hormone levels.
Long-term effects remain insufficiently researched.
Side effects may include unwanted hair growth, acne, and voice changes.
Who should not receive the treatment? There are certain health factors that mean testosterone should be avoided. This applies especially if you suffer from liver disease or have high cholesterol, as the hormone can put additional pressure on these conditions. Likewise, it is advised against if you already show signs of elevated male sex hormones (such as severe acne or hirsutism).
3. Individualized Risk Assessment
The guidelines move away from rigid protocols toward personalized evaluation. They provide specific risk data to inform decisions:
Breast cancer risk increases by approximately 1-2 percentage points with combined estrogen-progestin therapy used for more than five years after age 50 (absolute risk: roughly 1 extra case per 50-70 women, depending on progestin type)
Blood clot and stroke risk is higher with oral estrogen than transdermal (patch/gel/spray) formulations
Risk depends on treatment type, duration, and individual health history
Why This Matters for Your Care
Every woman's menopause experience is unique—whether you're managing hot flashes, sleep disruption, mood changes, or sexual health concerns. At Apex Health & Aesthetics, we believe in:
Comprehensive assessments that consider your full health picture
Evidence-based discussions of both benefits and risks
Collaborative decision-making that aligns treatment with your priorities and values
Expert Perspective
"The Danish Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology's guidelines provide a valuable framework for nuanced conversations about menopause care. They remind us that hormone therapy is a tool for symptom management, not a one-size-fits-all solution, nor a preventive health strategy. For many women, the benefits outweigh risks when treatment is carefully selected and monitored, but informed consent requires understanding the full picture."
Take the next step toward your optimized health Menopause is a unique opportunity to take control of your health with precise information and personalized support. Whether you wish to explore new treatment options or need a second opinion, we are here to provide clarity rooted in the latest evidence.
Ready to regain clarity? Book a personal consultation with Dr Berit Lavik and get a treatment plan tailored specifically to your body and your needs.  Learn more about our approach to women's health and menopause here.
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